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Colaba, the southernmost tip of Mumbai, is a neighborhood filled with art, culture, and street food. This area is a perfect blend of colonial-era architecture, iconic landmarks, and vibrant streets that make it a must-visit for anyone in Mumbai. The various things to do in Colaba attracts visitors from all areas. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, a foodie, or someone to soak in the city, Colaba has something for everyone.
Top 12 Things To Do In Colaba
From iconic landmarks to busy streets, art spaces, and delicious street food, here is a list of the best things to do in Colaba:
1. Visit Gateway Of India
Photo: SriSriChinmaya / Wikimedia Commons
One of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks, the Gateway of India, stands proudly at the waterfront in Colaba. Built in 1924, this monumental archway was designed to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India. Visitors who are looking for things to do in Colaba often come here to enjoy the beautiful view of the Arabian Sea.
Activities: Click photos, ferry ride to Elephanta Caves
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Gateway Of India
2. Explore Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
Photo: Rahul Soni 23 / Wikimedia Commons
Adjacent to the Gateway of India is the legendary Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, a symbol of luxury and elegance. Opened in 1903, the hotel has hosted numerous dignitaries, celebrities, and royalty over the years. The grandeur of this hotel makes it a must-see, especially if you are looking for things to do in Colaba.
Activities: Guided tour, afternoon tea, fine dining
Timings: Tours: 11 AM – 4 PM and Sea Lounge: 3:30 PM – 7 PM
3. Stroll Along Colaba Causeway
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
Colaba Causeway, often called the ‘Fashion Street of Mumbai,’ is a lively shopping street. Here, you can find everything from trendy clothes to quirky souvenirs. You’ll also come across several cafés, art galleries, and bookstores, combining shopping and culture. The energy of this street makes it the perfect place for visitors looking for things to do in Colaba.
Activities: Shopping, street food, hangout
Timings: Shops typically open from 10 AM – 10 PM
Suggested Read: Street Shopping In Mumbai
4. Dive Into History At Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya was formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum. One of the amazing things to see in Colaba, this is a premier cultural institutions in Mumbai. This museum is home to a vast collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts from various periods of Indian history. It is the ideal place for people looking for things to do in Colaba.
Activities: Explore artifacts, attend exhibitions, visit the café
Timings: 10:15 AM – 6 PM (Closed on Mondays)
5. Visit National Gallery Of Modern Art (NGMA)
Photo: Balajijagadesh / Wikimedia Commons
Located near the Regal Cinema in Colaba, NGMA houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary Indian art. It features works by renowned artists such as Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gil, and M.F. Husain. The gallery’s rotating exhibitions ensure that there is always something new to see, making it a great stop for those looking for things to do in Colaba.
Activities: Explore modern art, join guided tours, and attend exhibitions
Timings: 11 AM – 6:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Suggested Read: Art Galleries In Mumbai
6. Enjoy Delicious Food At Bademiya
Photo: Lesya Dolyk / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
No visit to Colaba is complete without trying out the mouthwatering street food. Bademiya is one of the most famous food stalls in the area. Located just behind the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Bademiya has been serving delicious kebabs, rolls, and other grilled delights for decades. Open late into the night, it’s a popular spot for visitors looking for things to do in Colaba.
Activities: Enjoy street food, hang out with friends and family
Timings: 6 PM – 3 AM
7. Do Window-Shopping At Colaba Market
Photo: Mike / Wikimedia Commons
If you are wondering about what to do in Colaba, Colaba Market has a mix of local and tourist-focused goods. From colorful textiles, handcrafted jewelry, and souvenirs to spices and traditional Indian clothing, the market is perfect for those looking for things to do in Colaba. If you want to shop or simply wander through the narrow lanes, Colaba Market is a delightful experience among the things to do in Colaba at night.
Activities: Browse textiles, jewellery, and antiques, bargain with vendors
Timings: Typically open from 10 AM – 10 PM
Suggested Read: Shopping In Mumbai
8. Explore Sassoon Dock Art Project
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Discover a world at the Sassoon Dock Art Project where modern creativity blends with Mumbai’s fishing legacy. The St+art India Foundation has converted this previously bustling 19th-century port, which is tucked away in Azad Nagar, into a lively cultural hub. Murals, installations, and photo-stories that depict the Koli community’s daily lives and the city’s changing identity bring the walls to life. Each angle and crevice reveals a different tale, from immersive rooms made of recycled plastic to striking graffiti and sculptures. It’s a sensory and unfiltered experience that is deeply rooted in local culture, one of the best places to visit in Colaba.
Activities: Explore immersive art installations, attend workshops, interact with local and international artists
Timings: 11 AM – 7 PM (Check for seasonal exhibitions)
9. Catch A Film At Regal Cinema
Photo: DesiBoy101 / Wikimedia Commons
Watching a movie at Regal Cinema is like stepping into a time capsule of Mumbai’s cinematic past. Opened in 1933, this art deco landmark on Colaba Causeway has hosted generations with its grand interiors and vintage charm. Whether you’re catching a Bollywood blockbuster or a nostalgic re-release, the ceilings, plush red seats, and old-school ambiance make it more than just a film but an experience. Regal isn’t just a theatre; it’s a living piece of Mumbai’s cultural fabric. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a touch of history with their popcorn.
Activities: Watch Bollywood and Hollywood films; enjoy the vintage art deco interiors
Timings: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
Suggested Read: Fun Things To Do In Mumbai
10. Discover Art At Chatterjee & Lal
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the art galleries in Colaba, Chatterjee & Lal is tucked away on Arthur Bunder Road. It is well-known for its cosy setting and carefully chosen exhibitions. This gallery supports both up-and-coming and well-established Indian artists, frequently presenting pieces that challenge expectations and provoke thought. Every show, from historical retrospectives to performance art, offers a glimpse into India’s changing artistic scene. Though the actual space is little, the concepts it contains are vast. Chatterjee & Lal provides a cool, intellectual diversion from the hustle and bustle of the city, one of the best things to do in Colaba for kids.
Activities: View contemporary and historical art exhibitions, attend artist talks
Timings: Tuesday – Saturday, 12 PM – 5 PM (Closed on Sunday & Monday)
11. Feel Serenity At Cathedral Of The Holy Name
Photo: Udaykumar PR / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Cathedral of the Holy Name provides a peaceful moment of reflection and architectural beauty amidst the bustling streets of Colaba. This Roman Catholic cathedral, which was constructed in 1905 in the Gothic Revival style, is a recognised heritage property and the home of the Archbishop of Bombay. Visit to bask in its serene atmosphere, stained-glass windows, and soaring ceilings, which contrast sharply with the city outside. The cathedral’s timeless grace and spiritual serenity make it a wonderful stop on any itinerary for Colaba.
Activities: Attend mass; admire Gothic Revival architecture and stained-glass windows
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Mumbai
12. Savour Street Food In Colaba
Photo: AmanAgrahari01/ Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The delectable street food scene in Colaba reflects Mumbai’s varied culinary spirit. Every mouthful tells a tale, from the sizzling kebabs at Bademiya to the spicy chaats and crispy vada pavs along the Colaba Causeway. Don’t miss Olympia Coffee House’s mango milkshake, Ohmazing’s tandoori sandwiches, or Apna Fast Food Center’s paneer rolls, among the best things to eat in Colaba. Your taste buds will be delighted by the scents, textures, and strong spices, whether you’re stopping by stalls during Colaba nightlife.
Activities: Try food of all types
Timings: Most stalls open from 11 AM – 11 PM
More Things To Do Around Colaba, Mumbai
Here are some more things to do around Colaba, adding to your amazing experiences for a diversified trip to Mumbai:
1. Visit David Sassoon Library And Reading Room
Photo: JSW Group / Wikimedia Commons
Founded in 1847, this historic library is an architectural wonder with a lovely garden and quiet reading rooms. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a book or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Even if you’re not a book lover, the building’s charming old-world charm and serene surroundings make it the ideal place for those looking for things to do around Colaba.
Activities: Explore the collection, attend literary events
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Suggested Read: Top Art Museums In Mumbai To Explore Creative And Cultural Masterpieces
2. Chill Out At Marine Drive
Photo: Swaminathan / Wikimedia Commons
A short walk from Colaba, Marine Drive is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the seaside. This sweeping boulevard, also known as the “Queen’s Necklace,” offers beautiful views of the Arabian Sea, especially at sunset. From taking a leisurely walk to simply people-watching, Marine Drive’s relaxing ambiance is a refreshing escape for those looking for things to do in Colaba.
Activities: Take a walk, enjoy street food, and watch the sunset
Timings: 24*7
3. Explore Kala Ghoda Art Space
Photo: Pratishkhedekar / Wikimedia Commons
Kala Ghoda is Mumbai’s energetic art district and a cultural hotspot. The area is home to a variety of art galleries, including the iconic Jehangir Art Gallery, street art displays, and cultural institutions. The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, held annually, draws art lovers from all over the world. This makes it one of the top things to do around Colaba for visitors.
Activities: Visit art galleries, attend workshops, and admire street art
Timings: 11 AM – 7 PM
Suggested Read: Modern Art Galleries In Mumbai
Colaba is a lively neighborhood that captures the spirit of Mumbai with its cultural sites, markets, and delicious street food. From the Gateway of India to the David Sassoon Library, there are many things to do in Colaba. If you want to explore art, try local dishes, or even shop, you’ll make unforgettable memories here. Book your customized travel package with TripXL today for an easy travel experience, including guided tours, accommodation, and more. Let us help you create an amazing Mumbai adventure!,
Cover Photo: FlickreviewR / Wikimedia Commons
